The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Lair of the White Worm by Bram Stoker: squirm, and proceed by stealth and cunning. She will never attack
when she can run away, although she knows well that running away
would probably be fatal to her. What is the letter about?"
Sir Nathaniel's voice was calm and self-possessed. When he was
engaged in any struggle of wits he was all diplomatist.
"She asks Mimi and me to tea this afternoon at Diana's Grove, and
hopes that you also will favour her."
Sir Nathaniel smiled.
"Please ask Mrs. Salton to accept for us all."
"She means some deadly mischief. Surely--surely it would be wiser
not."
 Lair of the White Worm |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Barlaam and Ioasaph by St. John of Damascus: that which had been useless useful. Furthermore he and his son
besieged the idols' temples and altars and levelled them even to
the ground, and in their stead, and to the honour of God, built
holy courts. And not only in the city but throughout all the
country also, thus did they in their zeal. And the evil spirits
that dwelt in those altars were driven forth with shrieks, and
cried out in terror at the invincible power of our God. And all
the region round about, and the greater part of the neighbour
nations, were led, as by the hand, to the true Faith. Then came
the holy Bishop, of whom we have spoken, and King Abenner was
instructed, and made perfect with Holy Baptism, in the name of
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